Kenyan legendary artist Ayub Ogada died on Friday night.
Famous for his 'Koth Biro' album, Ayub graced many local and international stages. But before we delve further, here are a few things you need to know about Ayub Ogada.
Many thespians will agree with me that the name Ayub Ogada is mentioned several times in the world of theatre.
There is no theatre hall in Kenya where Ayub Ogada’s songs are not played.
I grew up listening to Ayub Ogada but I never knew him well. Maybe this was so because he never used to live in Kenya. He spent most of his time abroad.
My first-time encounter with Ayub Ogada’s albums and photos was in 2016 when I visited African Heritage house in Mlolongo.
I met the founder of the heritage house Mr. Allan Donovan, who introduced us (a group of writers) to Ayub Ogada’s Kodhi Album and other songs and photos.
As we were talking, Ayub Ogada’s songs were playing in the background. But this man Ogada had these aspects of his life:
1. European tours
Allan explained to us how he partnered with Ayub Ogada during his European tours.
While he would take care of the fashion parade side focusing on African collections and models, Ayub would take care of the music side. He was the co-founder of the African Heritage band. They played African music.
2. Born in Mombasa
Ayub Ogada's real name is Job Seda. He was born in 1956 in Mombasa to Luo parents.
He is a singer and songwriter. What sets Ayub Ogada apart from other Kenyan musicians is the fact that he played traditional musical instruments.
He played 'Nyatiti', a traditional Luo instrument.
His music, therefore, has this native touch and traditional feeling. His hit songs include the famous 'Koth Biro', 'Ondiek' and “I dreamed of Africa.”
His albums include Kodhi, En mana Kuoyo and Tanguru.
3. Actor
Ayub Ogada was also an actor (is this why his name is constantly mentioned in Kenyan theatres?).
He acted in several films like Out of Africa and Kitchen Toto.
His music has also been used as soundtrack in many documentaries.
The one that easily comes in mind is the BBC’s documentary about River Zambezi titled, Victoria Falls.
Others include Long Way Round and the movie, The Constant Gardener.
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